TL;DR:
To clean fresh urine from a mattress, first blot the area with a dry towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Next, lightly spray the stain with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. After letting it sit for 10 minutes, blot the area dry again. Cover the entire damp spot with a thick layer of baking soda and leave it for at least 8 hours to fully dry and absorb the odor. Finally, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove all the dried baking soda.
A mattress is a significant investment in your home and your health, but life happens. Whether from a potty-training toddler, an aging pet, or an unfortunate accident, urine stains are a common issue for many households. The key challenge with urine is not just the visible stain but the chemical composition. Urine contains uric acid, which forms crystals as it dries. These crystals are not water-soluble and are the primary source of the persistent, sharp odor that can return on humid days or if the spot gets damp again.
Simply cleaning the surface with soap and water often fails because it doesn’t break down these uric acid crystals. This can lead to lingering smells and even bacterial growth within the mattress fibers. The good news is that with the right techniques and common household ingredients, you can effectively remove both the stain and the odor. The process involves neutralizing the ammonia, breaking down the uric acid, and drawing out all residual moisture. Following a specific set of steps ensures you treat the problem at its source rather than just masking it.
Immediate Action: Treating a Fresh Urine Stain
When you discover a fresh urine spot, time is your most valuable asset. The quicker you act, the less liquid will penetrate the deeper layers of the mattress, making the cleaning process much more effective. Your goal is to remove as much of the urine as possible before it has a chance to set. Resisting the urge to scrub is the first and most important rule.
The Blotting Technique: Your First Line of Defense
Scrubbing a wet spot on a mattress is a natural instinct, but it’s the worst thing you can do. The pressure from scrubbing grinds the liquid deeper into the mattress padding and fibers, spreading the stain and making it harder to remove. Instead, you need to blot.
Grab a clean, dry towel or several paper towels. A microfiber cloth is an excellent choice due to its high absorbency.
Press the towel firmly onto the wet spot. Apply firm, steady pressure straight down. You will see the towel begin to absorb the liquid.
Lift and move to a dry section of the towel. Repeat the process, continuing to press down firmly on the stain.
Continue until the towel is no longer picking up moisture. This initial step is critical because it physically removes a large percentage of the urine before any cleaning solutions are even applied.
Think of your mattress like a giant sponge. Blotting pulls the liquid up and out, while scrubbing just pushes it further in. Taking a few extra minutes to blot thoroughly will save you significant effort later.
Assembling Your Cleaning Toolkit
You don’t need expensive, specialized equipment to tackle a fresh stain. Most of the necessary items are likely already in your kitchen or laundry room. Gather these before you begin:
White Distilled Vinegar: The acetic acid in vinegar is perfect for neutralizing the ammonia in urine. This helps to combat the initial sharp smell.
Baking Soda: This is a fantastic natural deodorizer and absorbent. It will draw out the remaining moisture from the vinegar solution and trap odor-causing particles.
An Empty Spray Bottle: This allows you to apply the vinegar solution evenly without oversaturating the mattress.
Clean Towels or Cloths: You’ll need these for blotting both before and after applying the solution.
A Vacuum Cleaner: A vacuum with a hose and upholstery attachment is essential for the final step of removing the dried baking soda.
Step-by-Step Fresh Stain Removal
Once you have blotted the area and gathered your supplies, you can begin the cleaning process. This method is safe for most mattress types, including innerspring and many foam hybrids.
Create the Vinegar Solution: Mix a solution of 50% white vinegar and 50% cool water in your spray bottle. Shake it gently to combine.
Spray the Affected Area: Lightly mist the entire stained area with the vinegar solution. The goal is to dampen the stain, not to soak the mattress. The vinegar will begin working immediately to neutralize the ammonia.
Let it Sit: Allow the solution to sit on the stain for about 5 to 10 minutes. This gives the acetic acid time to work on the urine components.
Blot Again: Take another clean, dry towel and blot the area just as you did before. This will absorb the vinegar solution along with the broken-down urine. Press firmly to remove as much liquid as possible.
Apply Baking Soda: Generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire damp area. Don’t be shy; you want a thick, visible layer. The baking soda will now begin its work, drawing out the last of the moisture and absorbing any remaining odor.
Wait Patiently: This is the most important step. Let the baking soda sit for a minimum of 8 to 10 hours, or even longer if possible. It needs to be completely dry to be effective. The area should feel dry and crusty to the touch.
Vacuum Thoroughly: Once the baking soda is completely dry, use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to suck it all up. Go over the area several times from different directions to ensure all the powder is removed. The stain and the smell should be gone.
Tackling Dried, Set-In Stains and Odors
Discovering an old, dried urine stain presents a different set of challenges. The water content has evaporated, but the uric acid crystals have been left behind. These crystals are the source of the stubborn, recurring odor. Simply adding water or a basic cleaner can sometimes make the smell worse by reactivating these crystals. To successfully treat a dried stain, you need a slightly more potent solution to break down these components.
Why Old Stains Are More Challenging
When urine dries, its chemical makeup changes. The urea breaks down into ammonia, which creates that initial pungent smell. More importantly, the uric acid forms non-soluble salt crystals that embed themselves into the fabric fibers. These crystals are unaffected by simple soap and water. When they are exposed to moisture or humidity, they release another wave of odor, which is why a smell you thought was gone can suddenly reappear. The key to removing old stains is using a formula that can break down and dissolve these stubborn crystals.
The Hydrogen Peroxide Method for Tough Stains
For a yellowed, set-in stain, a mixture containing hydrogen peroxide can be highly effective. Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing agent that breaks down the chemical bonds in the stain, helping to lift it from the fabric. However, it carries a small risk of discoloration, so it is vital to test it on a small, hidden spot first, like the side or back of the mattress.
DIY Stain-Lifting Solution:
8 ounces of 3% hydrogen peroxide
3 tablespoons of baking soda
2-3 drops of liquid dish soap (like Dawn)
Mix these ingredients in a spray bottle right before you plan to use them. The combination of peroxide and baking soda creates a powerful reaction, so it loses its effectiveness if stored.
Lightly Dampen the Stain: Since the stain is dry, you first need to rehydrate it slightly. Use a spray bottle with plain water to lightly mist the old stain. This helps the cleaning solution penetrate better.
Apply the Solution: Spray the hydrogen peroxide mixture directly onto the stain, ensuring you cover the entire area. You may see it start to foam slightly as it reacts with the organic material.
Let it Work: Allow the solution to air dry completely. Do not blot it. As it dries, the ingredients will work to break down the stain and odor. A white, powdery residue from the baking soda will be left behind.
Vacuum the Residue: Once the area is 100% dry, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove all the dried residue. The yellow stain should be significantly lighter or completely gone. If a faint stain remains, you can repeat the process.
Rehydrating and Reactivating the Stain
The concept of rehydrating a stain might seem counterintuitive, but it’s a crucial step for old stains. Applying a cleaning solution to a bone-dry stain means the cleaner might only treat the surface. By lightly misting the area with water first, you “wake up” the uric acid crystals and allow the cleaning agents in your peroxide or enzymatic solution to penetrate deeper into the mattress fibers. This ensures the cleaner can reach and break down the entire stain, not just the part you can see. This small preparatory step can make a huge difference in the final outcome, especially for odors that seem to be embedded deep within the mattress.
How to Get Pee Out of a Mattress with Enzymatic Cleaners
While DIY solutions are effective for many situations, commercial enzymatic cleaners are specifically engineered to destroy the organic proteins in urine, blood, and other biological stains. These cleaners are often the go-to choice for pet owners and are incredibly effective on human urine as well. They offer a powerful, targeted approach that can work where other methods might fall short, especially on very old or severe stains.
What Are Enzymatic Cleaners and How Do They Work?
Enzymatic cleaners contain beneficial bacteria that produce enzymes. These enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions. In the case of urine, the enzymes specifically target and break down the complex molecules of uric acid, urea, and proteins into simpler, smaller molecules like carbon dioxide and ammonia. These smaller molecules then evaporate without leaving behind any residue or odor.
Essentially, the enzymes “eat” the organic matter causing the stain and smell. This is fundamentally different from a standard detergent, which just uses soap to lift and wash away a stain. Because enzymatic cleaners destroy the source of the problem, they are exceptionally good at permanently eliminating odors.
Choosing the Right Product
When shopping for an enzymatic cleaner, the market can seem crowded. Look for products specifically formulated for pet stains and urine, as these will contain the right types of enzymes for the job.
Popular Brands: Well-regarded brands include Nature’s Miracle, Rocco & Roxie Supply Co., and Bissell Pet Stain & Odor.
Check the Label: Ensure the product states it is an “enzymatic” or “bio-enzymatic” formula.
Read Reviews: Look for reviews from users who have dealt with mattress stains specifically, as this will give you a good indication of its effectiveness for your situation.
Comparison of Cleaning Methods
Method
Best For
Pros
Cons
Vinegar & Baking Soda
Fresh, wet stains
Inexpensive, non-toxic, readily available ingredients
May not be strong enough for old, set-in stains
Hydrogen Peroxide Mix
Old, yellowed stains
Very effective at lifting visual stains, powerful deodorizer
Small risk of bleaching fabric, must be patch-tested
Enzymatic Cleaner
Any stain, especially stubborn pet urine
Extremely effective at eliminating odors permanently, targets the source
More expensive, requires purchase of a specific product
Application Guide for Commercial Cleaners
To get the best results from an enzymatic cleaner, it’s important to follow the product’s instructions carefully. The general process is usually straightforward but requires patience.
Blot First (If Fresh): If the stain is new, always blot up as much excess urine as you can before applying any product.
Saturate the Area: Unlike the DIY methods where you lightly mist, most enzymatic cleaners require you to thoroughly saturate the stain. The cleaner needs to soak as deeply as the urine did to reach all the uric acid crystals. Be sure to treat an area slightly larger than the visible stain.
Allow Dwell Time: This is the most critical step. The enzymes need time to work. Cover the treated area with a damp towel or plastic wrap to keep it moist and allow the enzymes to remain active for as long as possible. Most products recommend a dwell time of several hours, and some suggest leaving it for up to 24 hours for severe stains.
Let it Air Dry: After the recommended dwell time, remove the covering and allow the area to air dry completely. This can take a day or two. You can use a fan or open a window to improve air circulation and speed up the process. Do not apply heat.
Vacuum: Once dry, vacuum the area to lift any remaining residue and fluff up the mattress fibers. The odor should be completely gone because its source has been eliminated.
Special Considerations for Different Mattress Types
Not all mattresses are created equal. The material and construction of your mattress can influence which cleaning methods are safest and most effective. Using the wrong technique or solution could potentially damage the mattress structure or void its warranty. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s care instructions before you begin.
Memory Foam and Gel Mattresses
Memory foam is a dense, porous material that acts like a high-tech sponge. This makes it particularly susceptible to liquid damage. Excessive moisture can break down the foam’s cellular structure, causing it to lose its supportive and contouring properties.
Use Minimal Liquid: When cleaning memory foam, use the least amount of cleaning solution possible. The spray-and-blot method is much safer than saturating the area.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to the gentle vinegar and water solution or a cleaner specifically approved for memory foam. Hydrogen peroxide can be too harsh and may degrade the foam over time.
Prioritize Air Drying: Never use a hairdryer or any form of heat to dry memory foam, as this can cause permanent damage. Rely on fans and good air circulation. Blotting thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible is key.
Innerspring and Hybrid Mattresses
Traditional innerspring mattresses have layers of fiberfill, foam, and padding on top of a core of steel coils. Hybrid mattresses combine these layers with memory foam or latex. The main concern here is moisture seeping down into the lower layers.
Deep Seepage Risk: Liquid that reaches the innerspring core can lead to rust on the coils and encourage the growth of mold and mildew within the mattress.
Thorough Drying is Essential: Because of the multiple layers, ensure the mattress is completely dry before putting sheets back on. After cleaning, prop the mattress up on its side to allow air to circulate around it, which can help it dry more thoroughly.
Most Cleaning Methods are Safe: Innerspring and hybrid mattresses are generally durable and can handle all the cleaning methods discussed, including enzymatic cleaners and the hydrogen peroxide solution (after a spot test on the fabric cover).
Latex and Organic Mattresses
Natural latex mattresses are known for their durability and hypoallergenic properties, but the material can be sensitive to certain chemicals. Organic mattresses often use materials like wool and cotton, which also require gentle care.
Avoid Harsh Solvents: Harsh chemicals, solvents, and even hydrogen peroxide can cause natural latex to oxidize and break down, making it dry and brittle.
Stick to Mild Cleaners: The 50/50 vinegar and water solution is the safest bet. For a commercial option, look for a plant-based or organic enzymatic cleaner that is certified safe for natural materials.
Wool as a Barrier: Many organic mattresses use wool as a natural fire retardant and moisture-wicker. This layer can sometimes prevent a small amount of liquid from reaching the core, but it should still be cleaned and dried properly to prevent odors from setting in.
Eliminating Lingering Urine Odor for Good
Sometimes, even after you’ve removed the visible stain, a faint odor can remain. This usually means that some uric acid crystals are still hiding deep within the mattress fibers. Getting rid of this last bit of smell requires a focus on deodorizing and ensuring the mattress is completely dry, both inside and out.
The Power of Baking Soda and Sunlight
We’ve already discussed using baking soda to absorb moisture and odors during the initial cleaning, but it can also be used as a general mattress freshener. If you notice a lingering smell, sprinkle a fresh, thick layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface, not just the previously stained spot. Let it sit for several hours, then vacuum it up.
Sunlight is another powerful, natural tool. The UV rays from the sun are excellent at killing bacteria and neutralizing odors. If you can, take your mattress outside on a dry, sunny day and let it air out for a few hours. Prop it up so that air can circulate on all sides. This is one of the most effective ways to freshen a mattress and eliminate any lingering dampness or smells.
Using Activated Charcoal or Coffee Grounds
If you can’t take your mattress outside, you can use other natural absorbents to tackle airborne odors in the room.
Activated Charcoal: This is a highly porous form of carbon that is exceptional at trapping odor molecules. Place a few bowls of activated charcoal briquettes (the kind without lighter fluid) in the room around the bed.
Coffee Grounds: Dry, unused coffee grounds also work well to absorb smells. Place a shallow bowl of them on the nightstand. While they will leave a coffee scent behind, they are effective at pulling other odors out of the air.
These methods won’t clean the mattress itself, but they can make the room more pleasant while you work on treating the source of the smell.
When to Call a Professional Cleaner
There are times when a DIY approach may not be enough. If the mattress was completely saturated (for example, from a large spill or a pet repeatedly using the same spot), the liquid may have penetrated the core. If you’ve tried multiple cleaning methods and a strong odor persists, it may be time to call a professional.
Professional mattress cleaners use industrial-grade equipment, like hot water extraction machines, that can inject a cleaning solution deep into the mattress and then powerfully extract it along with all the dirt and urine. They have the tools to clean and dry a mattress more thoroughly than is possible at home. While it’s an added expense, it can often save a mattress that would otherwise need to be replaced.
Preventive Measures: Keeping Your Mattress Safe and Clean
The easiest way to deal with a urine stain is to prevent it from ever reaching the mattress in the first place. Taking a few proactive steps can protect your investment, save you from future cleaning headaches, and ensure a more hygienic sleeping environment for your family.
The Importance of a High-Quality Mattress Protector
This is the single most important step you can take. A good quality waterproof mattress protector is an impermeable barrier between your sheets and your mattress. Modern protectors are not the crinkly, uncomfortable plastic sheets of the past. They are often made with soft, breathable fabrics on top and a thin, quiet polyurethane membrane on the bottom.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: Be sure to buy a protector that is labeled “waterproof,” not just “water-resistant.” A resistant cover might handle a small spill but won’t stand up to a larger accident.
Breathability: Look for protectors that are also breathable. This allows air to circulate, preventing heat buildup and ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep.
Easy to Clean: When an accident happens, you can simply remove the protector and toss it in the washing machine, leaving your mattress completely unscathed.
Establishing Routines for Children and Pets
For ongoing issues with children or pets, creating consistent routines can make a big difference. For toddlers who are potty training, consider limiting liquids an hour or two before bedtime. Ensure they use the toilet right before they get into bed.
For pets, sudden changes in urination habits can sometimes signal an underlying medical issue, such as a urinary tract infection or kidney problems. If your house-trained pet starts having accidents, a visit to the veterinarian is a good first step. For behavioral issues, ensure they have easy access to a clean litter box or are taken out for a final potty break right before bed.
Regular Mattress Maintenance
Good mattress hygiene can help keep it fresh and extend its life.
Vacuum Regularly: Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to vacuum the surface of your mattress once a month. This removes dust mites, dead skin cells, and other allergens.
Air it Out: Whenever you change your sheets, leave the mattress uncovered for an hour or two to let it air out and release any trapped moisture.
Rotate or Flip: Rotate your mattress 180 degrees every three to six months to ensure even wear. If it’s a double-sided mattress, you should also flip it.
By combining these preventive strategies, you can significantly reduce the chances of ever having to deal with a difficult mattress stain again.
Conclusion
Successfully removing urine from a mattress comes down to acting quickly and using the right ingredients for the job. For fresh stains, a simple and effective combination of blotting, a vinegar solution, and baking soda can neutralize odors and lift the stain before it sets. For older, more stubborn stains, a stronger solution containing hydrogen peroxide or a commercial enzymatic cleaner is needed to break down the uric acid crystals that cause lingering smells. Always consider your mattress type and test any new cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first.
Ultimately, the most effective strategy is prevention. Investing in a high-quality, waterproof mattress protector is the best way to safeguard your mattress from all types of liquid spills and accidents. It provides peace of mind and transforms a potential cleaning crisis into a simple laundry task. By following these cleaning steps and adopting a preventive mindset, you can ensure your mattress remains a clean, comfortable, and hygienic place to rest for years to come. Contact us and Get a Free Quote Today.